Home > Tours > Traditional Culture > Sumida River Cruise on a traditional "Yakatabune" Boat
Experience a “Yakatabune,” or houseboat shaped boat.
Why not experience a traditional “Yakatabune,” or houseboat shaped boat?
The origin of yakatabune dates back to the Edo Era’s 8th shogunate, which was in the mid-18th century, the era of the Tokugawa Yoshimune. These boats were especially popular in the summer, when old Edo was hit by steamy heat waves. For the people of Edo, going out to the river and the sea in search of cool climates aboard yakatabune is a well versed, and most enjoyable tradition.
Your tour, a ride in a Japanese style houseboat down Tokyo’s famous Sumida River, includes food, drinks, and a plethora of great views. You’ll also see Odaiba (a manmade island in Tokyo Bay), Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Sky Tree and much more. All the while, you will enjoy the Sumida River’s “Senbonzakura” (thousand sakura trees) along both sides of the river as you dine on Japanese food such as tempura and sashimi, in addition to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
There’s even more to see after dark, with Tokyo Sky Tree all lit up at night above, and cherry blossoms all lit up in front of your very eyes. On this tour, you will enjoy cherry blossom viewing in an elegant style that will always live on in your memories. A carefree experience is waiting for your enjoyment!
・Japanese food and drink to enjoy on the houseboat
・Views of Odaiba from the ship
・Rainbow Bridge up close and personal from the comfort of the ship
・Views of the Tokyo Sky Tree from the Sumida River
・Minimum number of participants is 2 people
・Payment can be made in advance using Credit card or PayPal.
・Please be sure to arrive on time. Refunds cannot be made for those who arrive late.
・The boat does not sail every day. There is only one evening service, and we start accepting applications about a month in advance. We do not accept applications prior to this date. When the charter boat is fully booked, we may not be able to accept reservations for the passenger boat. If the minimum number of passengers is not reached, the boat will not be operated.
Price | ¥16,500 / person |
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Duration | 3 hours |
Hours of availability | Varies depending on the date. |
Inclusions | ・Japanese meal |
Exclusions | ・Transportation to and from the dock, except from the designated meeting place (Shinagawa Station) |
Participants | 2-8 people |
Varies depending on the date. We will let you know the exact location after complete your reservatrion.